It’s a hobby that Shea has practiced for some time, with some of his work selling for over $1,500.

Since suffering knee ligament during Stoke City’s preseason friendly against the Philadelphia Union two months ago, the winger has converted his double garage into an art studio where he focuses on abstract paintings.

“I’ve certainly been painting a lot lately while I’ve been injured. It keeps me busy, and the more I do it the better I get. Mostly I’m working on abstracts right now; just painting and seeing what happens.”

For Shea, painting is an outlet that keeps him occupied during his down time. “I wouldn’t say I’m very good I just enjoy it,” said Shea. “It keeps my mind off things and gives me something to do instead of getting into trouble or playing video games.”

For a player who posted a photo of himself brandishing two shotguns on Instagram earlier this summer, picking up the paint brush is a welcomed change. “It’s a nice way to relax. There is no right or wrong, it’s just opinions so I can do whatever I want. It’s not like the pressure of winning Premier League matches.”

Winning matches in England’s top flight, however, is exactly what Shea is eager to do following his time on the trainer’s table. Approaching full fitness and poised to be selected to play over the course of the next week, the US international is thirsting to get back on the pitch.

He doesn’t fancy his chances for selection this weekend when the Potters head to North London to face off with Arsenal, but next week’s League Cup match is circled on his calendar.

Brek Shea suffered knee ligament damage against the Philadelphia Union on July 30th. This week, he’s fit to make his return to at Stoke City.

“I feel good, now it’s up to the manager,” Shea told Stoke Sentinel. “It’s more likely I have a chance next midweek at Tranmere (in the Capital One Cup) than at Arsenal on Sunday. We’ve been playing well and why change a winning team?”

It’s an astute point that is evident of Shea’s growing maturity. After spending the second half of last season rehabbing a foot injury, the winger sounds as if he’s mentally ready to challenge for a starting spot with the Potters.

“It’s going to be a good fight. There is a lot of competition for the front three places here and being injured didn’t help my cause. I’ve got to put the injury behind me, get fit and fight for a spot.”

A spot on Mark Hughes’ side means displacing current starting left winger, Mathew Etherington. The 32 year old has started all four of Stoke’s contests but has yet to register a single shot on goal. Shea must also prove himself over players like Jermain Pennant and Stephen Ireland, who have enjoyed strong showings in their substitute roles.

The American’s motivation to do well, however, couldn’t be more clear: “I really want to go to the World Cup, so first and foremost I need to be playing well for Stoke.”